Albion manager Chris Hughton said: “We’re delighted to welcome Bernardo to the club. He is a strong, committed defender who can play on the left or right, and so his versatility gives us good options at the back.

“For a young player he already has good experience, having played in the Bundesliga, the Champions League and the Europa League.

“He is a good character and speaks numerous languages, and I’m sure he will fit in well with the rest of the squad.”

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Bernardo said: “I chose the club because they showed a big interest in me and my goal has always been to play in the Premier League because it’s the biggest league in the world.

“I heard about the interest and then when I saw the fans, the club and the facilities and the sea, I knew it was the right place for me.

“I saw how the club did in their first season because everyone watches the league – and they were very impressive.

“The club came up and embraced the stage and had a wonderful year, everyone was very impressed, and I wanted to become a part of that.”

Leipzig paid Salzburg £5.5m for him two summers ago.

Bernardo began his career with Audax Sao Paulo before joining Red Bull Brasil in 2013.

He went on to have spells with other home-country clubs including Coritiba and Ponte Preta, then briefly played for Austrian second-tier side Liefering before making his Salzburg debut in January 2016.

Bernardo's father and agent – Bernardo Fernandes da Silva Sr – is himself a former footballer.